Pastoral Staff

Pastor Jeff is originally from Hansford, WV. He graduated from East Bank HS and WVU Tech, where he received degrees in Industrial Relations and Labor studies, Economics and Political Science. After college he signed with the Kansas City Royals as a First Baseman. Following baseball, he felt God calling him into fulltime ministry. As he began preparing for ministry, he received his M.A. in Biblical Studies (Trinity Theological Seminary) and an honorary (D.D.) Doctorate of Divinity degree. Pastor Jeff has over 20-years of experience as a Senior Pastor and over 30-years of full-time ministry experience. He has been at FBC since 2016. He loves the outdoors (especially fishing), all things athletics (especially WVU), home projects, and camping with his wife Beth. They have 3 adult children, Lauren (Kyle), Nate (Suzanna), and Mitch… and four grandchildren.

Favorite Scripture: Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “I love the team with whom God has allowed me serve and the loving people to whom we serve… Oh… and that it’s in WV!

Bryan Cantrell is originally from Nitro, WV. He is a graduate of West Virginia State University where he received a B.A. in Sociology. Later he attended Asbury Theological Seminary where he earned an M.Div. and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary where he received his D.Min. in Youth and Family Ministries. Bryan has over 10-years of experience as a Youth Pastor in Lexington, KY and Nitro, WV, and 5-years as a Family Life Pastor in Huntington, WV. Bryan also served 3-years as a Lead Pastor in Winfield, WV. He has been at FBC since 2018. Pastor Bryan enjoys spending time with family, reading, exercising, Reds baseball, WVU sports, playing bass guitar, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, all things Batman, and eating chicken wings. He’s married to Stephanie and together they raise three children (Adalyn, Bryson, and Rylee).

Jerry Losh is originally from Clarksburg, WV. He serves as one of our church’s Senior Associate Pastors, in charge of our VIP’s (Retired and Beyond) Ministry. Jerry is a graduate from Fairmont State University where he earned his B.A. in Sociology. He also earned a Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Jerry has served at First Baptist, first as a Youth Minister and now as our Minister of Sr. Adults. Jerry left FBC for a period of time to lead the Baptist Campus Ministry as the State Director for WV. Jerry has over 20 years experience as a Youth Minister and over 10 years experience as a Minister to Senior Adults. He is an avid sports enthusiast, especially with regards to softball, pickleball and golf. Jerry is married to his wife Kathy. They have three adult children (Jeff, Greg, and Debbie).

Favorite Scripture: 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “I enjoy the people of First Baptist. Everyone is so supportive, loving and kind.”

Ron Stoner is originally from Huntington, WV, but spent many of his years in Holden, WV in Logan County. Ron is a graduate of Logan High School. In 1966, he received a BA Degree from Marshall University and in 1970, a M.Div. from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Fort Worth, TX. Ron was ordained by the Twentieth Street Baptist Church of Huntington, WV in September 1973 and has served as the Pastor for 11-years at First Baptist Church of Ravenswood, WV., and for 30-years as the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church of Charleston, WV. Pastor Ron served as the Interim Pastor here at FBC from 2015-2016. He has remained at FBC since then serving part-time as a Senior Associate, overseeing our churches CARE Ministry and College Sunday School. Pastor Ron enjoys scuba diving in the ocean and has logged over 165 dives. He also enjoys wood-working. He is married to Jan and they have two adult children Rhonda and Shane… and four grandsons.

Favorite Thing About FBC: “Jan and I found a congregation that accepts, encourages and supports us. Here we have opportunities to feed upon God’s Word, fellowship and service together with other believers to the glory of our Lord Jesus.”

Ministry Directors

Beth Davenport is originally from Ironton, OH. She serves as the FBC Director of Music. She has a MAT (Masters of Teaching (Music Emphasis) from Marshall University, and a BFA (Bachelors of Fine Arts (Voice and Piano Emphasis) from Judson University in Elgin, IL. Beth has over 32-years of experience in church music and has been at FBC for since 2016. Beth is also the music teacher at Lakeside Elementary in Hurricane. She enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, camping and being a Grammie! Beth is married to Pastor Jeff. They have three adult children, Lauren (Kyle), Nate (Suzanna), and Mitch. They also have four grandchildren.

Favorite Scripture: Psalm 29:11 "The Lord will give strength unto His people. He will bless His people with peace".

Favorite thing about FBC: “FBC is a loving body of believers with great diversity in age, occupations, interests and gifts who are eager to serve the Lord together by loving Christ, learning Christ and living Christ daily.”

Tony Nutter grew up in South Charleston, WV and still lives there. He is a graduate of South Charleston High School. Tony is a gifted singer an musician, whose love for the Lord and people become evident in his worship ministries. He is very active helping train the next generation of worship leaders at FBC and with the WVBC. Tony leads Contemporary Worship each week at FBC since 2012. He has played in a Christian band called "Essential Element" during that same time. Tony loves Backpacking, Fishing and especially counselling at Camp Cowen. He’s married to his wife and faithful ministry partner Lisa. They have two daughters (Caitlin Wilson and Lydia Nutter).

Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear for I Am with you; do not be dismayed for I Am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand"

Favorite thing about FBC: “One of the things I like about FBCOH is how welcome I felt when first hired. I thought that "Glad to see ya" attitude would fade but every time I walk into the church, my brothers and sisters are genuinely glad to see us! I feel at home.”

Danielle Stewart is originally from Huntington, WV. She attended the University of Kentucky where she received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. Danielle worked as a Promotions Producer at WDKY TV in Lexington, KY for 4-years, before leaving to become a stay at home mom. During that time she volunteered at their church in the nursery department, as a Preschool Teacher, and on the church’s Outreach Planning Committee. Danielle and her family moved to the Hurricane area was connected to FBC. Danielle has been at FBC since 2011. As God opened a door of opportunity, she came on staff and has faithfully served in our Children’s Ministry. Danielle loves planning family vacations and get-always, especially to Disney World! Danielle is married to her husband Hal, Daughters: Morgan, Paige and Brooke.

Favorite Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 “’For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “I love how anyone can come into FBC and find a place to plug-in. We offer so many diverse ministries that no matter what your gift is, you can find a ministry to become involved.”

Lindsay Thorner is from Hurricane, WV, but also “made a guest appearance” in Colorado for a short time. Lindsay is the Director of Preschool Ministries at FBC. She has a degree in Management Technology and Business Administration from Marshall CTC. Lindsay grew up the daughter of a bi-vocational pastor, so serving in the local church has been a consistent part of her life. She has served on the FBC team since 2014 after volunteering in the Pre-school Ministry for a year prior to that. She and her family have been worshipping at FBC since 2011 and connected to the FB Academy since 2007.. She has also served as a Lead Teacher in the Early Childhood Education Program (Lake County School District, CO). Also, with her background as a pointe ballet dancer, Lindsay worked as a Dance Instructor for both children and adults. She has experience as a Receptionist, Bookkeeper and Tax Preparation Clerk, and waitress as well. Lindsay is fascinated by home building and construction and enjoys learning about it in her free time. She also is a collector of quirky aprons. Lindsay is married to her husband Ben. They have two daughters (Molly and Chloe).

Favorite Scripture: Isaiah 40:11 “He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.” and Psalm 30:8-12

Favorite thing about FBC: “Everything but the walk up from the lower parking lot... I love that we have so many amazing ministries and outreach opportunities, literally ANYONE can find a place to use their gifts and find close relationships. I love that we are like a really, really big family, and that love and connection and belonging spills over into our everyday lives and community...I rarely go anywhere that I don’t see someone from church, and it’s always a joyful moment!”

Angie Hayslett is originally from Nashville, TN. She serves as the Director of FB Academy. Angie earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Middle Tennessee State University, and has Taught in Putnam County Schools and at First Baptist Academy, prior to becoming the Director. Angie has served as the Director of Children’s Ministry at FBCOH, Upward Basketball, ReCess Ministry, and as a volunteer in the Children’s Ministries. She has been at FBC since 2001. Angie loves spending time with her family. She’s married to Jamie. They have three daughters (Mary, Emily, and Natalie).

Favorite Scripture: Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Favorite thing about FBC: “I love that our church is a true family. It is welcoming and loving.”

Support Staff

Jenny Tincher is from Hurricane, WV. Jenny serves as the Administrative Assistant and assists Pastor Jeff in overseeing our church office. She has over 25-years of experience as an administrative professional. Jenny is a lifelong member of FBC. She has served on staff at FBC since 2009. As Financial Secretary, Jenny handles all of our church's Accounts Receivable and contributions. She enjoys most, time with family. Jenny serves as youth leader and enjoys “growing alongside our youth (and my own kids)”. She also loves finding treasures to repurpose or restore. Jenny is married to John. They have two sons (Jacob and Jonah).

Favorite Thing About FBC: “I am grateful for every season we have been at FBC, which is like a loving extended family. FBC has played a major role in helping us to grow and also in raising our children.”

Melissa Vickers is from Hurricane, WV. Melissa is our church’s Clerk and Treasurer, and handles all of our church's Accounts Payable. She also handles financial matters for First Baptist Academy. She has over 23-years of clerical and accounting experience. She also volunteers in our Student Ministries and Student Sunday School, grades 6th-8th. Melissa has been at FBC since 2005 and has worked on staff since 2013. She enjoys working as a Youth Leader and basket weaving. She is married to Craig. They have two daughters, Morgan and Carly.

Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

Debbie Wertz is originally from Columbus, OH, but moved to Hurricane when she was only four years old. Debbie is our front office receptionist as is often that friendly voice when you call the church. She received her BS in Business Administration and Marketing from WV State University. She has served as the FBC receptionist since 2013. Debbie also serves as the treasurer for the Christian Community Cupboard as well as our church representative. Over the years she’s served as the Nursery Coordinator, Bible School volunteer, Harvest Party Coordinator, Puppet Team leader, Youth Leader, Harvest Dinner Coordinator, volunteer. Debbie became a member of FBC in 1975. Debbie and her husband, Bill, are rescuers and collectors of animals, especially dogs. They enjoy working on their farm, growing flowers, vegetables with their one and only “gran-darlin” Annie. She enjoys reading, baking, walking in the woods and spending time with my family. Debbie and Bill have one adult daughter Jennifer (Devashsish) and one “gran-darlin.”

Favorite Scripture: James 1:19, “Know this, my beloved brother; Let every person be quick to hear, Slow to Speak, Slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of man.”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “I love it that we care about one another, even if we don’t know each other very well. I love working and serving here in the church office with some fantastic people. Love hugging the sweet little Circle and Bible Study ladies too! So blessed that God put me here!”

Ashley White is from Hurricane, WV. She serves as our churches Media Coordinator. Ashley has also worked as a Youth Leader since 2015. She has also worked as a Children’s Church Teacher and Preschool Sunday School Teacher. Ashly is a substitute teacher for Putnam County Schools and a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Marshall University. She has been at FBC for 23-years as and on staff since 2016. She enjoys playing tennis and piano, and teaching. Ashley serves at FBC with her parents (Darin, Mendy) and her brother (A.J.).

Favorite Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 “’For I know the plans I have for you’, declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “My favorite thing is being a part of FBC my entire life. It has come to be like home to me and the church body is like a second family. We laugh together and cry together. We lovingly joke and jest. We grow together in Christ and form lifetime bonds. Through all phases of life and the changes that inevitably come, I know that I have a family of believers to guide me toward Christ and walk beside me as I go.”

Terri Harrison is from Hurricane, WV. Terri is a graduate of Marshall University, where she received her Bachelor of Education degree with emphasis on music and piano. She’s taught private piano lessons for 35-years. And has been the pianist at First Baptist since 1993. Terry has been a member of FBC for over 43-years! She loves chocolate (especially at Hershey Park, PA). Terri also loves to ride rollercoasters. Terri is married to Larry Harrison II. They have three adult children (Jonathan, Sarah, and Amy).

Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:8-9 "Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Favorite Thing About FBC: “First Baptist Church is a place where everyone is welcome. God's Word is taught faithfully and truthfully. FBC has so much to offer for everyone who comes no matter what style of worship or learning you prefer. We are here to Love God, Learn God, and Live God, and Glorify God!”

Amy Ashworth is originally from Pawcatuck, CT, but moved to Hurricane when she was just 10-years old. Her family visited FBC and never left! Amy has been the organist at FBC since 2002 and the church since 1984. In her spare time, Amy enjoys doing family crafts (wood-burning, and creating unique crafts), and crocheting, a skill she learned from her grandmother. Amy is married to her husband Paul. They have a daughter (Olivia).

Favorite Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

Favorite Thing About FBC: “That’s simple… FBC is home.”

Service Staff

Jerry Smith is from Hurricane, WV. Jerry comes from a long-standing Hurricane family. He excelled as an athlete at Hurricane High School in the 70’s in baseball and football. He received a college football scholarship to WVU Tech. Jerry is a graduate of the State Division of Corrections Training in Huttonsville, WV. He enjoys trout fishing, all of nature, his dogs, and all things WVU Athletics! Jerry is married to his wife Debbie. They have a daughter Crystal.

Favorite Scripture: John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “My favorite thing about FBC is the people happily helping each other and our mission to help needy children. I love the warmth of the church members and staff and knowing that if you have trouble in your life, you can count on this church to help.”

Tim Sovine has lived his entire life in Hurricane, WV. He serves faithfully as one of our church’s custodians. Tim is a life-long member of FBC. Tim received his B.A. and Associate degrees from WV State University. He enjoys Astrology, flying drones, and Kyudo (Japanese archery).

Favorite Scripture: Philippians 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

Favorite Thing About FBC: “The nice thing about FBC is the warm , friendly people. Having grown up in this church, it has been like a large extended family.”

Crystal Parsons is from Hurricane, WV. Crystal faithfully serves on our custodial staff. She enjoys shopping and vacationing at the beach. Crystal has three daughters (Charity, Chasity, and Taylor) and a granddaughter.

Favorite Scripture: John 1:5 “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”